Connecticut House Bill HJ00038

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/17
• Refer: 1/19/17

Caption

Resolution Proposing An Amendment To The State Constitution Concerning Transportation Funds.

Impact

If passed, HJ00038 would reinforce constitutional provisions limiting the use of state funds. This amendment is intended to bolster fiscal responsibility and transparency in how transportation funds are managed. By restricting expenditures from the Special Transportation Fund, the resolution endeavors to enhance public confidence in government financial practices related to infrastructure and transportation projects. It suggests that wasted resources on projects outside of transportation should be curtailed, hence safeguarding the integrity of the funding mechanism established for transportation improvements.

Summary

House Joint Resolution 00038 proposes an amendment to the state constitution focusing on the management of transportation funds. It aims to prohibit the use or transfer of money within the Special Transportation Fund for purposes unrelated to transportation. This constitutional amendment seeks to ensure that funds designated for transportation are utilized solely for that purpose, thereby preventing potential misallocation or misuse of these resources. The initiative reflects a growing emphasis on accountability in public finance, particularly concerning funds generated for specific uses.

Contention

The proposal may encounter opposition based on concerns over rigid financial structures. Opponents might argue that such limitations could hinder the state's flexibility in addressing broader transportation needs or enacting emergency responses that could require reallocating funds swiftly. Conversely, supporters of the bill may assert that strict rules for the allocation of transportation funds are vital for maintaining public trust and ensuring that these funds directly benefit infrastructure development rather than being diverted to other government expenses.